While working at his information technology job, Robert Petty recalls wishing he could work outdoors. Then he got laid off.
Robert and his wife, Lana, began flipping houses in their Spicewood at Balcones Village neighborhood off Anderson Mill Road.
Lana, who said she does not usually like taking risks, was relieved when their business evolved into doing home renovations for others. They founded Top-Notch Renovations in 2007.
“Being self-employed is risky,” she said. “It’s amazing we’re going on 10 years.”
Lana said their two youngest sons who live at home, Derek, 10, and Jaden, 7, are also learning about how to operate a small business.
“We talk about issues with the plumber at dinner,” Lana said. “[Derek] told us, ‘Will you just hire someone [to help out]?’ And we did, and he was right.”
The Pettys now have two employees and are moving to a larger office Aug. 31 to help with the growth.
“We’re able to double our business,” Lana said. “There have been days where I’ve had six new customers to call back.”
Robert, who is a certified remodeler through the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, said the increase in business stems from the increase in the Austin-area population.
“It’s growing, and it’s now cheaper to stay in your house than get another house,” he said.
They focus on jobs located within about a 5-mile radius of their office and can handle any job from a $2,000 upgrade to a $400,000 total home remodel.
Because most of their business is from referrals, customer service is a high priority, Robert said. Lana said they follow up with clients one month after a job is complete and even two years later to check in.
“We want them to tell us [about any issues] so we can fix it,” she said. “We really like that relationship.”
Demo details
• The Pettys meet with a client to discuss the job and provide a written, detailed cost estimate.
• Once the client decides to move forward with a project, the Pettys bring in subcontractors to provide firm costs on items such as cabinets and flooring.
• Next they obtain permits from the city of Austin for work involving tasks such as plumbing and electrical.
• The clients receive a timeline of the job, and the Pettys hire the subcontractors.
• Once the city signs off on the final inspection, the job is complete.
